Comparing an EXC to a CR is Apples to Oranges. CR125/250 are motocross machines, the EXCs are offroad/enduro machines. Will they handle jumps-yes. As for speeds, The EXCs have a wide ratio transmission, which means they will have a higher top speed than a CR (close ratio transmission-for MOTOCROSS). You need to establish what type of riding you are going to be using the bike for. IF it is MOTO-then stick to a CR or KTM SX. If it is general, all arround offroad, hare scrambles, enduro-then the EXC is the way to go. As far as beating a CR off the line, THE biggest factor there is the rider's ability, not the bike. KTMs are not pricey anymore-but as with any bike-you have to shop arround. You might want to look on a KTM specific website like KTMtalk.com for more information on where to get them.